MONDAY 25 July, 2016
Have Something to Say?
And Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said again to Joab, “But whatever happens, please let me also run after the Cushite.” So Joab said, “Why will you run, my son, since you have no news ready?”“But whatever happens,” he said, “let me run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain, and outran the Cushite. - >2 Samuel 18:22-23
Ahimaazpersisted in asking Joab to run even though the Cushite was already on his way to the king. Notice his response, “Why would you run, my son, since you have no news ready?” He had no message ready! God is teaching us through this statement made by Joab––there is a perfect time to speak, so if we do not have something to say, we need to keep our lips closed and not say anything.
The best way to have something of spiritual value to say to others is to have your own personal devotional time with the Lord. God will speak intimately to you from the Scriptures. As you learn to be sensitive to His voice, He will remind you of what He has said to you throughout your day. When an opportunity comes for you to speak about the things of God to someone, you will be ready and prepared with a message.
Even Jesus spent time, in the early morning with the Father, in solitude before he began his ministry for the day. Mark1:35 reveals His daily discipline: Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.
God speaks twenty four seven—but are we listening? Often the problem is our computers, televisions and telephones. I am not saying these things are evil in themselves but they can be a distraction—big time. When do we have silent time to really hear from God’s Word? It may be necessary to sacrifice your sleep, get up early and spend time with God.
My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.
~Psalm 5:3~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!